Fuzzy logic predictive algorithm for Wireless-LAN fast inter-cell handoff

Data transmission systems based on the IEEE 802.11 standard, universally known as WiFi wireless communications, is strengthening its already dominant position as the powerhorse of wireless Internet in homes and public hot spots due to the new IEEE 802.11n standard, capable of delivering up to 450 Mbps. 802.11 standard was initially designed without provision of QoS guarantees. Eventually the need to include voice and video urged the development of the 802.11e standard, which provides a proficient level of QoS for real time applications. With the two former additions IEEE 802.11 systems are poised to join the family of 4G wireless networks, comprised by LTE (Long Term Evolution) and WiMax. However, still remains a challenge to overcome in the transfer of a session from one cell to another. Considering that the inter-cell handover consumes around 300 ms, it becomes unsuitable for real-time applications like Voice over IP (150 ms maximum delay) and video (200-400 ms). A proposals to reduce the IEEE 802.11 system handoff time is presented. A predictive method using fuzzy logic is developed in order to adapt to the requirements of constraining time applications like Voice over IP.